Young Professionals Technical Evening: Managed Pressure Drilling: A Smarter Approach to Well Control

With Uzma Chisti, Project Engineer │ Weatherford

Thursday 5th June 2025

Registration and networking from 6:00pm, with the event starting at 7:00pm

Free pizzas + soft drinks included, with self-paid bar available

OGV Taproom, 10 Bridge Place, AB11 6HZ

Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) is a closed-loop pressure control technique that enables precise management of wellbore pressures during drilling, offering improved safety, efficiency, and access to challenging reservoirs. Unlike conventional drilling, MPD systems allow for real-time surface backpressure adjustments, minimizing formation influx or losses and enhancing wellbore stability.

This session provides a clear overview of the general MPD approach, its key differences from conventional drilling, and how MPD equipment is integrated into a standard rig setup. Attendees will gain insight into the typical MPD rig-up layout, including essential surface equipment and flow paths, as well as the operational philosophy behind MPD-enabled rigs. The presentation aims to build foundational understanding of MPD applications, system configuration, and its value in mitigating risk and optimizing performance in complex wells.

Uzma Chisti │ Weatherford

Uzma Chisti is a Project Engineer specializing in Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) with Weatherford UK, currently supporting offshore operations in the North Sea. With a strong background in both geological and geophysical sciences, she offers a well-rounded technical perspective on drilling challenges. Over the years, she has worked extensively on both land and offshore rigs, bringing valuable hands-on experience from diverse operational environments. Her expertise includes MPD rig integration, well control, and risk mitigation in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) and narrow-margin wells. She has authored and presented technical papers at international conferences, contributing to knowledge-sharing in advanced drilling practices.

Originally from Pakistan, Uzma has broken barriers by working offshore in the North Sea, including on high-spec MPD wells in Norway. She is known for her calm and focused approach in high-pressure environments, along with a strong ability to communicate technical solutions across multi-disciplinary teams. Her career reflects a deep commitment to improving operational safety, efficiency, and performance through innovative and field-proven MPD technologies.